What Led Us to Today

This weekend on Facebook, I've have been profusely thanking an old friend of mine, Keith Dunn, for organizing the opportunity for Mark and I to see Bianca Del Rio. For those not in the know, Bianca Del Rio won this last season's RuPauls Drag Race(one of my most favorite shows). She is a wonderfully funny drag queen.

Keith and I worked together in 1985/86 at the Indiana Repertory Theatre in Indianapolis. We were in the box office and sold tickets, and handled customer issues. I don't believe I ever told this to Keith, but he was my first gay friend to pal around with. Oh trust me, I knew gay people, but at that point I hadn't been out long, and those who were gay were closeted. He not only was my co-worker, but he was my bar buddy. He introduced me to the bars in Indy; The Varsity, Talbott Street, OP's(now Greg's), and I think we might have gone to The Unicorn.

Back then, I enjoyed bars to a point, and then I would get depressed. I felt bad for Keith at the time, because I thought he must of thought I was a mess. I kind of was. Back then I was misdiagnosed as HIV+(but would not know it was a misdiagnosis for 2 years), and I felt very alone. So at certain points in the night, I would feel a bit down. He always did his best to cheer me up.

What you don't know then, is what you know now, and I thought about it this weekend. Who knew almost 30 years ago, that he and I would renew our friendship via Facebook, and he would be instrumental in picking up my spirits after a heart attack. Keith put the word out that I wasn't able to get tickets to the now sold out Bianca Del Rio show.

As it turns out an old friend from his Indy days came through. LaNora Takie works at the bar, and is an old friend of Keith's. She got Mark and me into the show, and also the meet and greet. Yes, we got to meet Bianca Del Rio. I had never met her until I went to the bar Friday night, and I made sure to give her a big hug of thanks. She is a sweetheart.

What I'm getting at is, the people we meet in our lives, we are never really sure what roles they will play in our lives. I find it fascinating that you can lose touch with someone, as I did with Keith, then we meet up via the internet years later, and we are still friends. If my today self went back and told 1985 Charlie that in 2014 he would have a heart attack, and Keith would do something kind to brighten a down time, I think 1985 Charlie would have ignored that and asked, "Di I find a hot guy for a boyfriend." Yeah, I was a bit shallow when I wanted to be.

To some of you, this may seem like a "duh" kind of post, but really, you don't know the roles people truly play in your lives. During the 80s, I went through a lot of sad times, so the friends I had in my life, I treated like family. They were family, and in my mind, still are family. I don't keep in touch with old friends like I should, but I treasure the times we had, and the love and affection we shared. Chances are, we still share that love and affection. It just doesn't always make itself known.

Charlie

The Lifestyle Coach

Yesterday I met with the lifestyle coach. Up to this point I've had nothing but wonderful things to say about the treatment and care I've been getting at Community. While this won't be negative, let me say, it just wasn't what I thought it would be.

The woman I met with was very nice, and made be feel comfortable in the examination room where we met. She did a basic review of my chart, and where I am at this point. Heart attack, stent, rehab, nutrition class, medication all got reviewed. I know the repetition is good, because it brings everything into perspective, and it makes them aware that you are aware of everything. This took up 15 minutes of a 30 minute meeting.

Then we talked stress. She asked me what gives me stress. I told her two things: home and work. I detailed where the stress comes from, and she gave me nods and smiles. She told me if I want counseling to deal with the stress I can, but what she mostly advised was breathing exercises. Really?

No, I wasn't expecting a magic pill which would take stress away, but deep breathing? Yeah, I understand there are benefits to it. I just thought there would be something a bit more in depth. Counseling? Yes I could do that again. It's been a couple decades, maybe I could use it. I just thought there would be more. Oh there was....she also told me a good many relieve stress by reading the Bible. She did suggest running. I think that one will work, once I get the approval to run(which should be soon in rehab).

Yes, I was expecting more. Considering the great and plentiful info I've gotten thus far, this just seemed lacking.

Charlie

The Checkup

This morning was my first visit to the cardiologist's office since my heart attack. This is a "how are you doing" visit. No tests, but I had my blood pressure checked on both arms. I was seen by the nurse practitioner.

So the good news is I am in good shape for having had a heart attack a little over 3 weeks ago. My blood pressure is normal. No changes need to be made on my medications. My rehab is producing good results. I got a big thumbs up to my going to the gym to workout a couple times a week. All in all, I would say a great checkup.

We did talk about nitroglycerin. It scares me quite a bit. Must be all the old movies I used to watch, where things go boom! The NP told me when it's appropriate to take it, so I'm more comfortable with that.

We discussed my running. When I can start running again will be left more in the hands of the rehab folks, and my progress. I've made it clear to them that I want to do that again. Everyone agrees that is an important step for the future.

I'm pleased with the visit. To celebrate, I went to the gym after and walked on the treadmill for 30 minutes. Felt good.

Charlie

Weight

When I was in the hospital I weighed 273 lbs. Those who know me, know I weighed 200lbs 8 years ago. Clearly there has been a slow progression towards being heavier. A number of factors are in play.  Stress is probably number one. I am an emotional eater. Stress drives me to food. You can have all the understanding of food and nutrition, but when you are sad, stressed, down, etc., you eat. I did.

Lack of running. Over the last few years my running has slowed to a crawl. If you aren't active, you gain weight - period. Working in a running store doesn't mean you have time to run. Retail hours are still retail hours. It takes committment to make running happen, and I didn't make it a priority.

Running as a business. I lost sight of running for myself as a source of enjoyment, and saw it more as a business. The minute something is a chore, we don't want to do it. The challenge is to turn the chore into fun.

At this point, I am eating better. Stress is still with me. Really after a heart attack, how are you not stressed that you won't have another one. So while I am figuring that out, the snacks I am eating are more regulated and healthier. My fave of late is a handful of unsalted cashews. Yummy.

Right now, I am 266 lbs.. This is progress. To help further the progress, Mark and I have finally re-joined a gym. For now I will be walking. My doctor told me running won't happen for at least 3 months, maybe more. It depends on my recovery. I can walk though. It's what I do in rehab, and I can do it at the gym, or anywhere. The gym gives me the incentive to go do something.

So while I am not happy about the weight, I am working on it, and focused on losing it as part of my recovery.

Charlie

Stress

Since my heart attack, the mantra has been "You have to reduce stress." I'm finding that is easier said than done. Stress comes in little packages, as well as big packages. It isn't always the big event. Sometimes, it's pulling out of the driveway, and being confronted with traffic.

For me stress is a number of issues. Money issues are always there, and they always cause me a certain amount of stress. Then again, money in general has always been a source of stress for me. When we were young, the simple act of asking for an allowance, or for a new toy, was met with 20 questions. This has carried over into adulthood. I get stress if I have to part with more than $50 for something.

The next issue is work. My work is not stressful. It's the things around my work which bring stress. Lack of good communication, so I can do my job effectively brings me a great deal of stress. I can handle the angry customer in front of me. I go nuts if I have to ask a question requiring timely response, and the response either requires me to ask several times, or I wait too long. Pick and choose your battles. I always pick communication, because it determines how well you can do your job.

Finally I think about the stress I self induce. If I am OCD on anything it's time. For me, being 5 minutes early is on time. I have a big problem with tardiness, and it churns my up inside to not be on time. So clearly, this is something I can work on. The others sometimes feel beyond my control.

Next week I sit down with a lifestyle coach who is going to talk to me about my life, where my stress is, and how to reduce it. Should be an interesting topic to say the least.

Charlie

The Routine

Today was the first active day of rehab. It's about a 45 minute workout. It starts with me attaching various heart reading things(the technical term) to my chest. This measures my heart rate as I workout. Also, once I rip them off my skin, it serves a dual purpose of waxing my chest. After a quick blood pressure check I am off.

There is stretches, a couple laps around the room, and some weight lifting. Don't worry, no bench pressing 200lbs here. I did 4 lbs weights today. 200 is next time. After this is done, you get into the cardio aspect. I got on the treadmill, got me walking at a 3.0 MPH, and was off on a 10 minute walk. After 5 minutes they took my blood pressure again, it had gone up, but it was expected it would, and I was well within the norm.

After the treadmill, I have to do the weights again. Same routine, same 4 lbs. Once this is done you move on to the next 10 minute cardio exercise. I did a seated bike. Again, I did 3.0 MPH. It seemed the effort was more on this, then on the treadmill. The nurses come by and ask on a scale of 1-10 what our effort is. The goal is to be in the 4-6 range; light moderate, to heavy moderate exertion. I felt both the activities were 5's.

Once the second cardio is done, then it's the weights, stretches and laps around the room. At the end, you sit until they tell you that you're done. They are checking all the measurements to be sure everything is normal. They ask if you are feeling dizzy or are in pain. If everything checks out, you go home. All was good, so I headed home.

Tomorrow I do it all over again, and then I meet with a nutritionist.

Charlie

They Told Me I Had to Go to Rehab, and I Said, "Yes, Yes, Yes"

This morning I headed to my first visit in the rehab clinic. This was not a workout day, but a testing and questions day. I was asked all kinds of lifestyle and nutrition questions. We reviewed my medication, took vitals, and went over what I will be doing.

At this point in the game here is what I know. In six minutes I can walk 1300 ft., which the nurse told me is good. I weigh 265 lbs. When I was in the hospital I was 273 lbs. So since July 7, with healthy eating I have lost 8 lbs. The goal for rehab is to get me moving, and lose 10 lbs. Seems like a good goal.

They asked me what my overall goal was. I told them I want to get to a point where I can run like I did. I was told I should be able to do that. For now, I walk. I will go to rehab 3 times a week(Monday, Wednesday and Thursday at 8am).

I mentioned on Facebook I was the youngest patient in the room. The nurse confirmed that. So for the moment, I'm the youngest.

On the eating front, while Anne was here, we began to establish better and healthier eating. We have discovered the Farmers Market, and brought lots of fresh produce home. We are looking through cookbooks and websites for tasty healthy meals. I'm not to do fad diets, or anythings rash. I am to cut down on fat, sodium, and manage portions.

I'm feeling ok physically. I have times when I haven't eaten I get a bad headache. I snack or meal takes care of that.

I'm also dealing with some depression. This is hard for me. I think I cried for about 10 minutes yesterday, which poor Mark had to endure. He was good though and assured me things would get better.

Also...we are looking at a gym to join. Planet Fitness offers $10 a month and no commitment.  We're going to give that a try, as Mark is with me on this. We want to be sure he doesn't get a heart attack.

Charlie

How to Manage Cooking

The message from the doctor was pretty simple - low sodium/low fat diet. Of course when we think of a diet like this, we think tasteless food, bland even. This is where creativity and planning come into play. Cooking a healthy meal requires some prep work, and an ability to try different things.

Instead of salt, use pepper, or garlic powder, or onion powder. If you have a spice rack, you have a lot of options in front of you. Maybe a dash of chili powder to give that pork a bit of kick? Maybe some tarragon for that chicken?

Time in this day and age means we prepare meals fast and on the go. To make the right heart healthy choices, you need to slow down a bit and prepare. We are getting a memo board for the kitchen, which will allow us to plan meals, and what we need to prepare. The world may be fast paced, but your kitchen doesn't have to be. Plus if you do enough prep, then the cooking part will be quicker, and maybe more fun.

This is our plan for now. Tonight, I'm thinking pork chops....now what to do to make it more interesting.....

Charlie

Adjusting

For those who have been through a heart attack, or those who have loved ones who have gone through it, you understand there is a period of adjustment. This is my period of adjustment. Emotionally I am still stunned this happened, and a bit depressed over it.

I also know Mark is having a difficult time adjusting. Difficult is probably an understatement. He doesn't want to talk about what he is going through, but he tells me he knows he needs to talk about it. I feel bad for him.

I have to focus on how I am coping though, and be a bit selfish, in that good way. I'm more aware of what my body is doing, probably hyper-aware. That's good I think. I'm more cautious about what I do. I know in time that caution will fade as I feel stronger, but for now, I'm good with it.

It's been good having my sister here. Of course it's fun to have Sabrina here, as she helps me take my mind off the really bad things that have happened. Never underestimate the power of Uno games.

Anne is helping us re-evaluate what we eat, she's helping with household chores, doing some driving for us. She's a good nurse, and an even better sister. She's preparing us for when it's just Mark and me.

Friday is also being extra good, and loves the fact there is someone home all the time now.

In over a week I will begin rehab, then I have doctors visits to do. The main thing for now is to reduce stress. That's why I'm oh so glad the insurance company is already letting me know what is being covered and how much....did you catch the sarcasm.

Hard to believe a week ago my life changed. While it happened fast, adjusting to a new lifestyle will take time.

Charlie

Home

Hello All....

I am home from the hospital where Mark, my sister Anne and my niece Sabrina are taking great care of me. I'm feeling good. Occasionally I'm tired, but I will take that over how I felt a few days ago.

Today I was visited by a home health nurse who took my vitals, quizzed me on my meds, and just did an overall check of how I was doing. She thought I looked great, and I told her I felt really good.

I did go walking today. I walked at the mall. Am a bit tired, but feel it was a good thing to do, without pushing it.

On the food front, we are learning how to reduce sodium(mostly by reading labels and being stunned at the amount of sodium in foods). Anne took us to Paradise Cafe and Bakery. I had an amazing salad. Strawberry Poppyseed and Chicken. I ordered the 1/2 salad which tasted so summery and good. The salad has(other than the previously mentioned items), mandarin oranges, pineapple, blueberries and pecans. The Poppyseed Dressing I had on the side and used sparingly.

Bottom line - feeling good and glad to be home.

Charlie

The Road to Recovery

Hello My Friends,

It looks like this blog is about to take a new turn, and hopefully for the better. Sunday night I suffered a heart attack. This originally came as a shock to me, but as I lay here in the hospital, thinking about things, it probably was going to happen. I have not been actively running, and I had put on a lot of weight. Add the stress in my life....heart attack.

My life is taking a new journey, and I have never been shy about sharing it with you. I have to re-learn the positive lifestyle changes I let go, and focus on living as healthy as I can for the rest of my life. I won't be running anytime soon. I will be walking though, and I will take you along on those walks. I will share the food habits I have to re-start, and I will discuss what is going on physically and mentally.

First off I should tell you I am scared. Nothing like this has happened to me, and I am scared of it happening again. I'm also a bit depressed that this has happened. I've been as upbeat as I can, but I am a bit depressed.

If you, or anyone you know has words of advice having gone through something like this. I am all eyes and ears.

In the meantime, I do my best to share as I go forward.

Charlie

What Do.....

What do a funny named shoe, a drag queen named Bianca, a scared garter snake and 2 miles have in common? Well it was all a part of my run today.

The goal as last time was to run 2 miles, as I slowly come back from injury after injury, and the dreaded weight gain. I have to remember not to be frustrated about doing 2 miles. It could be worse, I could be doing NO miles.

I headed to Westfield for a run north on the Monon. Off I went. Today I am running in my run only pair of Hokas. I have a pair for work, and one for running now. Hokas are an odd named shoe, that's for sure. While I don't believe in miracle shoes or products for running, this shoe comes close to it. It is built for long endurance runs like ultras, but you can wear this big bulky looking shoe for any distance. What will surprise you is how light it is - 10.8 oz. If you are a runner who battles injury, I encourage you to try this shoe.

So as I was slowly moving, I noticed movement a ahead. As I got closer, there it was - my arch nemesis - a snake. This was one of those so-called harmless garter snakes. It looked like he heard me coming, and the Earth was moving, because he was moving as quickly as he could to get out of my way. Yeah take that snake....run away from me.

The way back my knee was feeling a bit achy, so I tried adjusting my step a bit, and that seemed to help. Still once bad things happen on a run, you need to dig deep to get some inspiration to keep going. Today's inspiration came in the form of the drag queen Bianca Del Rio. Sorry, not just any drag queen, this is THE RuPaul's Drag Race Season 6 Winner, Bianca Del Rio.  She is an insult drag queen. Picture a far younger, prettier Don Rickles, and you get my drift.

So how did Bianca inspire me today. I needed something to say to myself over and over again to get through the doubt, and desire to stop. My phrase was ....

"Not today Satan, not today."  

Hey whatever works!

Overall I feel good about the run. I ran 1.7 miles and walked .3 today. Again, I will take that. Looking to do another 2 miles this week.

Charlie

Without the Brace

Today the goal was to run two miles - without the compression knee brace. For the record, my knee feels about 75%-80% better, but obviously not perfect. Not where I need to be that is for sure.

For now my goals are pretty simple. If it feels pretty good - go run. If I can, run more than I walk. So today I headed down the Hagen-Burke Trail. I was running in the Hoka Bondi's today. It takes a bit getting used to, running in those shoes. I'm not used to CUSHION!

Overall the run was fine. I did manage to run more than walk. I figured I walked 1/4 mile of the two miles I ran. I was slow, but then again, why do I need to be fast now?

I thought about the people who make excuses that they "jog." Oh please, it's right foot, left foot, repeat. There is no great trick to this. If you run slow....do it proudly. If you run fast....then Run Forest Run!

The knee bothered me some, but I was glad to have the extra cushion of the Hokas. All in all a good run. If I feel good tomorrow....then I will do it all over again.

Charlie

This n That

This is a hodgepodge of items for this post, there isn't a common thread, other than the theme of running.... :-)

1) This week's running consisted of two miles. I'll take it. After NOT running since November, two miles, is two more than I have done in months. This is a slow process to get back into running. I'm not pushing anything, other than to do a 5K this year.

2) Hokas - When I was a teenager, there were the Earth Shoes. For me those were a miracle shoe. They were the first decent looking non-orthodic shoes I could wear comfortable, and felt no pain in my feet.

Flash to the Hoka. It's too early to proclaim a miracle, but these shoes are great, and I feel virtually no pain in them when I walk. When I run, I feel a bit tender in the knee, but not enough to prevent me from running. I will do a more complete review once I have put more miles on them, but for now, they are helping me run.

3) Special Olympics - A couple months ago I came up with the idea of offering Special Olympics athletes a 20% discount in my store. I worked with the area chapter, and they had a donor who wanted to give each athlete a gift card to purchase shoes. It worked very well, and now about 40 athletes are running happy with new shoes.

My latest idea is also coming true. We offer a training program in the Summer for Fall races. The local SO chapter is going to select one athlete to come and train for a 5K with me. My store will provide the training and find a 5K in the Fall to get us into(complimentary). The county director loved the idea, and if it works, we will integrate more of the kids into the training programs in the future.

So it was a good week in my running world. Next goal - run 1.5 miles 3 times a week.

Charlie

The Slow Road Back

Today was an important day for me. I've had the back issues. I still have the LCL issue, but I was determined to run for the first time this year. The goal was 1 mile. The place was a flat, flat, flat, did I mention flat portion of the Monon. The plan was to run 1/2 and walk 1/2 if I could.

I needed some tools though.... A few weeks ago I tried walking in a Hoka Bondi. If you have not tried these shoes, I think they are worth it, especially if you are prone to injury or issues.

As I walked in the shoes at work, I noticed one thing, my left leg didn't bother me. It was the first time in months I walked around not feeling pain on the left side. The Hoka rep was kind enough to give me a pair to test out. So today I gave them a spin.

The other tool also came to me last week. CEP, which is a leader in compression, has designed a knee sleeve. I've used this at work for a week, and I notice I feel little discomfort on that left leg. So I thought I should put it to the test and run with it on today.

I got to my spot in the center of Carmel. I stretched a couple of minutes, and then, verrry slowly I started. It's awkward to run in new shoes. These were no exception. The Hokas are very cushy. Most of the time I don't like that kind of cushion, but today was ok.

I started with a slow jog, for 1/4 mile.  The knee area felt tender as I ran, but not too sore. I walked for the next 1/4 mile. My leg felt better. At the midpoint, I took a breather, then headed back to the car. This time I walked 1/4 mile. I ran the last 1/4 mile. Towards the end of the run, my main thought was not to push too hard. I could tell 1 mile was all the leg would allow today. At the end my leg was a bit sore, but not horrible sore. I stretched, and did a walk around the parking lot, then headed home.

Did I like the Hokas? I did. I'm not sure how they will hold up to my extreme supination. Time will tell. I was glad to have the brace on. Most important lesson....I need to have a doctor really look at this, and tell me what I need to do. $$$

The goal is to be able to run a 5K later this year. So today was a good first intro back. Felt good to be out there with the other runners.

Charlie

This Winter

Let's be blunt, for most of us this winter sucked for running. A good many people either didn't run, or they ran on the dread mill for hours at a time. I'm talking to a good many people gearing up for the Spring marathon/half marathon season who may not have run for two months, only ran on the treadmill, or are over training. In almost every case, they are complaining about pains and issues.

Folks, this is a gentle reminder, you can't make up lost training. Nope sorry. If you skipped a month of running, you can't do two months worth in one month to make up for it. Why? Injury. The greatest reason we get injured is from over training.

One gentleman insisted to me it was his shoes. It couldn't be the 5 miles a day he started doing(previously he was a 2 mile every other day guy). My fear is this race season will see a lot of people in a lot of pain on the road.

If you have to push through these races, I'm suggesting a good use of walking breaks. No, you actually don't have to run the entire race. You can take walk breaks, and no one thinks ill of you. Nor are you any less of a runner(no matter what the snobs say).

Use some sense, and you can get past the lack of winter training. Focus on some cross training and build/re-build your core. Make sure the shoes are good. Your local specialty running store can help you with that. Improve your nutrition. Put the donut down, and have something a bit better for you. Your insides will thank you, and it will improve your running.

It's Spring, but yes, we can overcome this past Winter.

Charlie

How Do I Run?

If anyone is still reading the blog, I'm sorry I haven't written since the marathon in September. To be honest, I haven't felt like writing here, because I haven't been running. The marathon ended at mile 13, when my back just kept feeling stiff and a bit sore. I knew I didn't have another 13 miles in me that day. I was fine stopping. I didn't get emotional as I thought I would.

Since then, I have only run twice. Neither run was spectacular. The back still bothered me. Once the back felt better, I sprained my LCL on my left knee. This bothers me some, but I am hoping to start running again. The problem is, how do I run?

Yes, I know it's right foot, left foot. With all the time away, I just don't know how to start. I feel lost, and have felt lost about running. It doesn't help that I have struggled for months in my personal and professional life. In short, I've been miserable. It would have helped to run, but I couldn't. Now I feel I want to start again, but, as I said, I feel lost on how to do this.

I have a goal of a 5K, maybe a 10K this year. Nothing lofty, nothing too much. I want to get back into it, and develop a routine, and remind myself of the love I have for this sport. I do love it, but there are days it's hard.

In the meantime, I've been coaching runners, but I feel like a fraud, because I'm not out there running. The worst part is I've gained quite a bit of weight, and I feel gross. So as I begin to come out of the mess that has been my non-running life, I hope some of you will give me some advice, encouragement, and maybe a spark to get me back.

I will write from time to time, and get back into the swing of things here. I've missed running, and I've missed writing on running.

Charlie

Countdown to Marathon - 1 Day

It's the day before the marathon. Goals today are to tour the course to see what the heck I have gotten myself into, go back to the expo(went to get the packet, but didn't explore the expo, hang with the cousins. Plan the race.

Not sure how this one will go. Mark's ankle looks like it will keep him from going around the course. I'm thinking maybe seeing him at the start, and then at the end. He just can't get around. I know there are people out there who run these things with no support crew. Maybe this is my time to go solo. We'll see.

I start at 6am, in the early start. I anticipate the rest of the runners will start as I head into mile 4. I expect to be passed, and I'm ok with that, afterall I'll have been leading for a while, about time someone came by to take over the pace if the race. :-)

Tonight a pasta dinner, then an early bedtime. I'll let you all know how it goes.

Charlie

Countdown to the Marathon - 2 Days

On to Wisconsin is the rallying cry today. Very excited about the race. Very excited to see my cousins. Very excited to get cheese curds(if you don't know....it's ok).

The road to a marathon is full of highs and lows. Trying to put the last month out of my head(back, cold, Mark spraining his ankle). Time to focus on the 26.2 miles ahead. It won't seem real until I get to the expo tomorrow. That's when you know it's happening.

Weather still looks great for Sunday.

:-)Charlie

Countdown to Marathon - 3 Days

Today we pack for the journey to Wisconsin. This is important. I can forget a lot of things: the shirt I want to wear for dinner one night, the jeans which fit pretty well, toothpaste. What I can't forget is the running gear. Clothes - check. Shoes - check. GU - check.

A glitch in the plan. Mark has fallen and sprained his ankle badly. This makes things difficult for race day. I am hoping a cousin or two will be able to help me out on the course. I can do it on my own if I need to though. My worry is his ankle, and how he sees this as a set back.

On the health front, my back is mostly better. My throat has been sore for a while, and it gets worse the more I talk. Good news, I don't have to talk to anyone during the race.

So 3 days out....wish things were better, but I am packing and ready to go.

Charlie

How I Run - Comparison

There is a big difference between how I think I run....

....and I most likely run....

:-)Charlie

Countdown to Marathon - 4 Days

I haven't written much this year about being 50. Truth be told the year has sucked, but besides that, how does it affect my running? Yes, I am slower. I can work on speed, but I won't be the runner I was 7 years ago, unless one of you has some magic pill.

The recent problems with my back allowed me to examine more how I move. I have to be more deliberate with my movements. For example, when I get out of bed, I have to move carefully, and before I stand up, I sit for a moment and make sure I'm not making any odd movements. I don't know how I got the muscle spasm in my back, but I know it started when I got out of bed, so whatever it was I was doing - I don't, or at least try not to do.

Running means I have to watch what I am doing. Because my feet are the way they are, I notice oddities. My feet don't respond to curves in the road. Now we all think roads are flat, but they aren't. The flattest part of a road tends to be the center, then there are slight curves to the sides of the road. I assume this is so when it rains, the water can quickly go to the sides, and into drainage. My feet feel that slight bend. I try to stay close to the center.

Yes, I know this makes me sound like someone who is say....60 or 70. I want to continue to run then, so I think it's important to be even more aware of my body now. As I get closer to this race, I am aware that my body is not at ideal marathon shape. Part of that is cross training - specifically strength training. I am going to work on this. The problem is money is tight, and joining a gym is not possible now. When it is....gym time.

Don't get me wrong, the goal of finishing can still be met. I just have to take more care now.

Charlie

Countdown to Marathon - 5 Days

What to wear? No, I'm not being a fashionista this morning. You have to figure what to wear on race day. "Come on Charlie - shorts, shirt, socks, shoes - duh," you may say. Well....yes....and no. Always keep an eye on the weather when figuring out your race day wear.

Right now the forecast for race day is sunny, low of 46, high of 62. Now, for me that is ideal, but how do you dress? As the days turn colder, you want to dress in some sort of layers. Now in this case, I have to think about when I will run the majority of my race.

I will start at 6am. The sun won't be up yet. A short sleeve shirt and shorts won't do. A long sleeve shirt will work, because I can always later roll up sleeves as the race goes on. I might want a jacket at the start, but I know that will come off fairly quickly. As for the bottoms, I am looking at 2 in 1 shorts, or I have longer running tights, that are light enough, that it wouldn't be a problem in the later stages.

Half the race will be run before 9:30am, so the coolness will be a factor. Remember, as you run your body temperature is 15 degrees warmer. So when it does it 62, it will feel like 77. I might not want those light tights at that point. I do know as the race goes on, my pace gets slower, so if it is chilly, I will feel it more in those later stages, so I can still opt for the tights.

See I told you this wasn't about being a fashionista.

Socks and shoes are a breeze. I am planning on Fits Merino Wool Socks and of course my Brooks Dyads. Hat - Boston Red Sox Cap. I may wear wicking clothing, but my hat is always a cotton. Call me nuts, but I like that on my head.

Body Glide is a must for long distance running. Chaffing is NOT fun during a race.

It's always best if one or two of your runs is done with what you are planning to wear. This way you'll know if there are seams in the clothes which may bother you. Or, you may find out it just doesn't work. Race day is never a good day to figure out something isn't working.

Planning things like this is key to a good race.

Charlie

Countdown to Marathon - 6 days

In the past I have dedicated my run to various people or causes. I had thought I wanted to dedicate each mile to various people, but in the end, I decided to go a different route. On the journey towards a marathon, there are a lot of people who show support and are there for you. They support you are you train, as you run the race, and as they follow you virtually.

During this training, I have received wonderful support from my friend Kris, who has been out there during one of my longer runs, being a support crew. I have gotten lots of encouragement from the staff of my store. These people mean a lot to me. One associate brought in his office chair I could use at my desk, so my back would feel supported. Another has made sure I have been getting enough nutrition and hydration. All have asked how I am doing, and am I ready. Mark always makes sure I am feeling good. He's been patient as I've gone through my back issue. He'll be out there race day with a cousin or two I imagine making sure I'm ok. I'm looking forward to seeing various cousins out there cheering me on. I rarely get to run with family watching, so this will be fun.  I'm also grateful to the people online who have sent me messages of support. It means a lot to me.

This is the year of the support network. I will carry all of those messages, offers to help me, run with me, etc., with me during this race.

There is another group though, that I am also dedicating this race to. Since April, I have thought a lot about those who suffered in the aftermath of the Boston Marathon Bombing. Some died. A good many were badly injured. Mostly, people endured a horrific event, that we need to be sure doesn't happen again. I will be wearing my Boston Red Sox cap to honor these people. I will be Boston Strong as I make my way to the finish line.

6 days to go....still feeling good.

Charlie

Countdown to Marathon - 7 Days

A week from today I toe the start line, and head off on a 26.2 adventure. Today I ran a nice 3 mile run. I felt good. No signs of back issues, though I have been dealing with a cough and sore throat for a a couple weeks. Nothing though seems to bother my running.

So how am I feeling? Nervous. Training has not been what I would have liked, but that seems to be the norm. When you work in running specialty, you never get to run as much as you would like, or can. Still what I have been most proud of during this training is the fact I have stayed on pace. The goal is to finish in seven hours. My long runs have been pretty close to race pace. Now, will I be able to do that over the longer distance, that I don't know.

I've been asked what my race plan is. I half joke that the plan is to run, until I can't run anymore, then I walk until I finish. I would say if I can sustain a good run/walk pace over 16 miles, I am in good shape for the last 10.

The test is always between miles 18-20. That's when I mentally break down. I typically call my sister at that point. Note to self....remind Anne to have phone ready.

So now I get ready for the big day.

Charlie

Being the Good Samaritan Cost the Long Run

The goal this morning was to run for 4-5 hours. My opportunities for this run are running out, and the marathon is 2 1/2 weeks away. I gathered my gear, and headed out solo.

About 2.5 miles into the run, I saw a sight which made me stop running. There on the trail was an elderly man in his 70s sitting, holding his right ankle, and looking sad. I noticed that two women had been with him, but were now walking away. I stopped to make sure he was ok.

He had tried to find a gap in traffic to cross the street, instead of waiting for traffic to clear. He went across the street, off the trail, jumped over a small wire fence, and his foot landed in a hole. He was lamenting that he probably broke his ankle. I asked if I could call anyone for him, or try to get some help. He explained that the women who had just gone had called his wife. I offered to stay with him until his wife arrived.

He didn't want to interrupt my run, but I told him I would feel better if I stayed and made sure help came. He thanked me, then told me about his past ankle problems, and how this was going to put a crimp in his running. I listened, and told him he would run another day, the important thing was to get to a doctor.

He then said, "May I ask you a question?" "Sure," I answered. He asked, "Is it true Brooks is doing away with the Trance?" Of all the questions in the world, that one was not what I expected. I had helped this gentleman a few times in my store, and now he wanted to talk shoes. I laughed and told him the Trance would be leaving by Spring, and the Transcend would take it's place. He noted that I suggested a lighter stability shoe, like the Dyad, but he really liked the Trance.  He also told me how nice one of my staff has been to his son.

The gentleman has a good memory. He asked if I was ready for my marathon. I told him I was doing a long run today. He felt bad about my stopping. I told him it was nothing to worry about. The wife and her friend had not arrived, and by now he wanted me to call her. He laughed and said his wife sometimes thinks he is joking about things, and I was to call her and tell her it was no joke. I looked down the trail and saw two women and a Cocker Spaniel heading our way. Help was about to arrive.

Both women are nurses, and the wife began to scold him for what he did, "How the Hell old are you?" She was smiling, so I knew it was a husband/wife thing. He introduced me as the owner of his running store. I gently corrected and told her the manager. She was happy I had stayed. Soon I headed off on the run, he thanked me, and told me he would be in soon for a pair of Brooks Trance.

I was with him for about 25 minutes. As you can imagine, it's pretty hard to restart running after not running for a a long period. I felt pretty good though. Still I didn't know if I could finish what I started.

I would find out later I couldn't do it. I tried, I did. In the end I ran 1:33, and did 6 miles. Nope, not good for a long run. And my long runs are running out. My original thought was to transfer to the half, and just focus on a marathon next year. Nope - the half is sold out. So now I need a plan B. I think that plan will involve more walking than I would like. I know at this point I can do a decent half marathon. The finish it, I have to more frequent walk breaks. I also felt under nourished and hydrated today. So I need to kick that up a bit.

The last few weeks have been horrible for me. A combination of a cold, and muscle spasms in the back have knocked me out of running. Maybe that was my taper, and now I build to the marathon?

Oh this marathon may not be pretty, but I will do it.

Charlie

Each Race is a Lesson

I have often thought that each race we run provides a lesson, not only in terms of our running, but in life as well. My first 5K was a Trick of Trot Halloween race. Prior to this, my running consisted of my getting up at 4 a.m., and heading out the door. I didn't want people to see me run, because I thought I looked horrible.

What I learned in this first race, is that nobody, but a Kenyan, looks like a Kenyan when they ran. I saw people stomp their way through the race. I saw prancing. I saw run/walking and walk/running. No one looked especially graceful. Then again, I was towards the back, maybe all the Kenyan like folks led the darned thing. Still, I valued the lesson that I no longer had to be ashamed of what I look like running, and to this day, know I look kind of silly running, but who cares?

My first half marathon was a different lesson. I learned not only could I do long distances, but the long distance race can be emotional. Now to be fair, I was running in my hometown of South Bend, IN, and running into Notre Dame Stadium. Still I learned that these milestones can sometimes me very emotional. I got choked up as the stadium came into sight. I got chills as I ran through the tunnel. I WAS Joe Montana running into the stadium, and I was thrilled beyond belief.

The marathon, each one I have run, poses a different set of lessons. The marathon is about seeing how far you can push your body, and what you can take. None of the marathons I have run have been easy. The first one, proved I could do it. The second one showed me that even under adverse weather conditions, sometimes it's best to call it a day. The third one showed me I could go faster, and more importantly share my love of the race with others. The fourth was a true lesson in endurance, and how hard the distance can be.

All of these races have a common lesson though, once you put your mind to something, you can accomplish anything. It may not be pretty. It may not be glorious. Sometimes it hurts. In the end though, you can do it.

Charlie

31 Days ...

We are now 31 days until the marathon. Within the next week, I will need a really long run, so I am figuring when to do that. In the meantime I have maps of the course, and trying to figure out the places Mark can meet me along the course.

I am also doing something different this time as motivation. I will be dedicating various miles to various people. If you are interested in having a mile on the course dedicated to you, let me know. I have already dedicated the first, 13.1 and final .2 miles, which I will talk about as the month goes on.

I'm feeling fairly good at this point. I am relatively healthy. My runs, for the most part have gone well. I think I have a handle on the race nutrition. So far so good as the saying goes.

At this point in race training, it's a matter of getting mentally strong to endure the 26.2 miles.

31 days and counting....

Charlie

NB 880v3 vs. Brooks Dyad 7

As I became more serious about running, there have been two brands I have been able to wear somewhat consistently; New Balance and Brooks. Because of the various issues with my feet, and the fact they are extra wide, very few companies make shoes I can wear. These two brands have been pretty good for me.

Over the last three years I have been strictly Brooks. The reason being that as New Balance has tinkered with old standbys, I have found their shoes to be too narrow, or in the case of the last shoe I wore, the heel broke down in 7 runs.

Now there is a new version of the NB 880v3 out, and I was given a pair, so it's time to compare shoes....

On the right, we have my current shoe - Brooks Dyad 7. One the left - NB 880v3.

Let's look at the make of the shoes. First of all the Dyad runs a bit longer than the 880. It isn't by much, but there is a touch more length.

The stability pods on the Dyad also make it a wider shoe. Both have a wide toe box which is very important to me, as that is where I am widest.


Not many people think about depth in a shoe, but the move these days is to have a shallower shoe. This helps make it a lighter shoe.  In this case, the NB 880 is much closer to the foot than the Dyad.

Both shoes have the 12mm drop from heel to toe. These are more traditional, as the move is the have 4mm less heel to tow drop. Thank you barefoot movement.

So how do the shoes compare running?

The Dyad 7 has Brooks DNA cushioning in it, which has been in several of their other shoes like the Adrenaline or Glycerin. It is designed to make Brooks shoes even softer. For the record, Brooks shoes have never been known for their pillowy feel, and to be honest, I don't like a softer cushion. I find over time my feet and ankles hurt with more cushion, because I'm not as firmly planted on the ground, or so I feel.

NB 880v3 uses Abzorb for it's cushioning. Again, this is not a pillow to run on, it is a pretty firm shoe. They have also added ActevaLite which is a premium lightweight midsole, for an additional cushion.

Yesterday I ran 5 miles in the NB 880v3. Here is what I liked. The firm feel. While Brooks has made the Dyad feel softer, I liked the firmer feel of the New Balance. I felt I could push off from the ground better, like I was more in control of planting my foot. The New Balance is also lighter. The Brooks Dyad can sometimes feel clunky. Now this isn't necessarily a bad thing. Sometimes I want more flex in my shoe. While the 880 felt narrower, I never felt the width was a problem. To be fair, I would need to do a longer run, and allow my feet to swell before I made a final determination.

What I didn't like... The shallow depth of the shoe was an issue. I felt it pressing on the top of my foot, especially on the left foot, to the point I felt some pain. I thought this was odd, because my right foot is the wider. I did loosen the shoes laces, and alleviated some of the pain. The pain though, lingered through the rest of the evening. The shoes laces on the 880 are very thin, and it can lead one to tie them too tight for fear they may come undone. I am going to re-lace them a bit differently on my next run to see if there is still the issue.

My other concern is the heel. After my last NB shoe, I am a bit leery of the heel strength. Again, further running would need to be done before any durability can be discerned.

Overall I really liked the 880v3. Am I going to give up on the Dyad? No. I think it's good to have another shoe in the arsenal. I am going to run a few more times before I decide which one I want to use on race day.

Charlie

Saying Goodbye to a Friend

Last week I talked about one of my favorite customers JB. In keeping with the notion that I can't mention specific names, today I want to talk about AS. AS is another young man who I have helped now for a few years.

When I first worked with AS, he was looking for shoes for hist first marathon. AS comes from a very nice family, so I got to know his mom as well in the process.  She would talk to me about his goals, and how she wanted to encourage him. I offered advice to both. I figured the runner not only needs advice, but the support crew needs some too.

For his first marathon, his mom was going to follow him around the course on her bike, but she knew she couldn't go everywhere. She made a sign with his name on it, and asked if I could hold it up and cheer him on race day. We had a cheer section, so I was happy to do it.

On race day I saw him coming down the road. We were at mile 15, so I figured this would be a tough stretch for him. I got the sign, the cowbell, and the the crew ready to cheer him on. He flashed a smile and a wave as he went by.

Later, not only did his mom thanks us, but AS came into the store to tell me that he was at a low point in the race when we saw him, and that cheering section boosted his spirits, and he was able to keep going. I thought that was awfully nice of both of them to thank me. I was happy to do it.

Months later, AS ran Chicago. This time, his mom was worried about how to get around. I went over the course map, and where along the route she could easily get to. Again, another successful race for AS. Again, I was thanked for my help.

Since then, AS comes in to order his shoes, and talk a bit about his running. His mom comes in from time to time, and catches me up on his progress. I have made a point of telling her over time that I think she has raised one of the nicest boys I have ever met. I know that makes her feel good.

Every now and then I see AS running, or run into him at the grocery store, and he always asks about my running and progress. Yes, we check in with each other on our running. I think it's cool that he inquires about how I'm doing.

Now we come to yesterday. AS came into the store. I knew he bought shoes a few weeks ago, but this was a different visit. He wanted to tell me he is heading off to college this week. He wanted to come in, say good bye, and thank me for all the help I have given him. I told him it was my pleasure. I asked how his mom was doing. She's been a bit emotional, because now both her kids will be out in the world. He assured me he would be back at Thanksgiving for new shoes, and to catch me up  on life. We shook hands, and off he went. I went into the back room and cried a bit. It felt like an old friend was moving on.

Again, I write a story like this, because I think those of us in the running specialty business have a unique relationship with our customers. We are advisor, coach, friend, sales person, and so much more to a good many folks. I doubt we have this kind of relationship with the folks at a big box store. We form a bond which is special, and it is truly one of the best parts of my job.

Whether he runs marathons, does Tris, or just jogs now and then, I hope AS does well with his running. I know he will do well in life. He is a good guy, with a level head on his shoulders.

Charlie

Long Run Quest

My quest for a good long long run during this training is still elusive. The goal this week was a 5 hour run. The result was a 2 1/2 hour run. My right knee was bothering me this week, and gave me some trouble of the run. I could feel the adjustments I was making was hurting my hips, so I ended the run 1/2  hours into it. Still I am pretty happy I made it 9 miles in that amount of time.

Time to let the knee feel better before the next really long run. Shorter runs don't seem to be a problem.

Charlie

Encouraging the Next Generation

How do we encourage the next generation of runners? This is something I deal with fairly often. In my community there are strong running programs in schools and churches for young runners. In one area school, there are over 100 kids on the track and field and cross country teams(note: only a few get to compete). I am very fortunate to work with some wonderful kids who come in for shoes and advice.

There are some kids I have special affection for. These are the ones who so truly love running and everything about running. They are the running geeks who can tell you what time Pre ran in the 1972 Olympics. It's very cool to help these kids year after year. They are respectful, fun and you can see the love of running in them.

Let me tell you about JB. JB lives in a small town in Indiana. He runs track and cross country for his local high school. He is very good, and is always striving to be better. He comes in every couple of months, and he specifically wants to work with me to get his shoes. Why me?

I take the time to listen to what he wants to accomplish. I'm able to verify or correct something he has learned about shoes. I check his gait(even though he doesn't need it). He is a guy who loves running, and wants to work with someone who loves running. All I want to do is encourage him.

Yesterday he and his mom came in. Seems they called ahead to see when I would be working. He wanted to get some shoes, but he also wanted to talk about his summer vacation. As he wore his Pre shirt, he told me about the journey to Eugene, OR to visit Haywood Field - hallowed ground for track and field guys. Seems the day he visited, the gates to the field were closed.  Soon he was talking to a grounds worker, who let him into the stadium, and JB got to run on the track that so many tracks greats have run.

JB was so thrilled to do this, and as he told me, I felt just as excited for him. How great that someone let him do this. How great that someone would encourage him like this. I too wanted to do something for him, and I did.

Recently we found a box of old track and field magazines. Someone had left them in the store(who knows why). When I say old, I mean these were from the 1970s. We found a home for the box, but kept one in the store. As JB told me his story, I knew what I wanted to do. I found the copy of that magazine, which by the way had a cover story on Steve Prefontaine, and told JB he could have it.

JB lit up and looked so thrilled to get this. His mother told me I didn't have to do that. I told her the groundskeeper didn't have to let him into run, but JB is such a good kid, I just wanted to do something nice. As he thumbed through the magazine, JB told me how he had been getting faster, and mixed in more stories of the trip to Eugene. He was on Cloud Nine.

We eventually figured out which shoes would work for his cross country season. As they left the store, he turned around, and thanked me for everything. JB is a senior in high school this year. Next year he will be off to college. I've watched many a kid come and go in my store, some I miss a great deal, because they are such good kids. JB is one I will miss very much.

I tell you this, because I am hoping that if there is a young runner out there, please find a way to encourage their running and love of the sport.

Charlie

A Multitude of Thoughts

I haven't posted in a while. To be honest, I didn't feel like writing, but today I have quite a bit to say. This is a series of random thoughts.....

1) 40 days until the marathon - so how has the training been going? I had a horrible 4 hour run attempt a couple weeks ago. Still the running has gone well. This week the goal is to run a 5 hour run. I know I am over a month from the marathon, but I also know my body. In a couple weeks, I will try another 4 hour run, before a true taper.

2) Running stores as a community center. Yes, the basic fact is a running store is a retail business. Everything they do is designed to generate business. In addition though, it can serve as the heart of the running community. Training programs, fun runs, workshops, all bring people together. Running stores make a mistake when they take the community for granted. A community is more than Facebook or Twitter postings, it how you actually relate to the community.

3) Watching runners. Every Saturday I head out on the Monon and pass out water to runners. I love doing this. It gives me a connection to the folks out there running. It allows me to just watch. I like to see how people are running. I try to figure out what their goals are, how they run as they are running. It's very exciting to me.

4) Enjoying running. It has taken me a while, but this year I am enjoying my running again. I spoke with a 63 year old man the other day, who had taken time off from injury. He told me how discouraged he is that he isn't the runner he used to be. I told him that is something I have struggled with. At 50 I understand what diminished running can be. At some point though, you accept the runner you are, and stop fighting the runner you were. As I told the gentleman, we are still out there running, which is better than most of us.

5) I love the Monon Trail, but after a marathon training all summer, I'm a bit tired running on it.

6) I love the Canal Towpath. It is ideal if you want a slow run.

7) While I don't miss living in Chicago, I do miss the Lakefront Path.

Charlie

No Olympic Boycott

A number of LGBT activists are calling for a boycott of the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia. Recently the Russian government has outlawed what they call pro-gay propaganda. There can be no gay pride demonstrations, talk about gay people in a positive light, no public displays of affection, in short - any thing which is deemed pro-gay. Jail is the penalty for violating the law. The International Olympic Committee says they are working with the Russians to allow openly lesbian and gay athletes to compete.

I say let the open athletes compete, and let's see some pro-gay action. If the Russians want to risk worldwide embarrassment and humiliation - good. Let the world see how cruel Putin and his cronies are. My guess is the Russians won't risk jailing gay people during the Olympics. In fact, I would be a good deal of money on it. They want the world to see happy, shiny Russian faces, not angry gay/army clashes. Anyone want to take me up on this bet?

Charlie

Marathon Countdown: 2 Months

As of this writing two months from today I will take off on my next marathon adventure. This is a good time to take stock of my training. I've been very happy with my running. I feel good. My longest runs are yet to come, but I was very happy with the 10 mile run I did a week ago. The heat and humidity have been rough, but I've managed to work through those.

What do I need to do at this point? Two things - keep running, and stay healthy. Seems easy, isn't always.

Yesterday the Community First Fox Cities Marathon folks released a video tour of the course. First impression is lots of turns. That can be a challenge. Still it looks mostly flat, not very shady. Of course I'm not too worried about that in September. Lots of residential areas to go through. This won't be a crowded marathon, so I think there will be a lot of alone spots.

I wrote about not using the GPS the other day. I'm going to throw in another techie issue - the iPod. I haven't liked running with it this go round. I find the runs I have without it are better and more enjoyable. Of course with a 4 hour run looming, I may need it a little bit.

So with the countdown really in action now....so far all systems are go.

Charlie

What Drives You?

On a hot, and humid day like today, it's easy to stay indoors. Days like this can be brutal out on the road or trail. Still on those days, I think one question to ask is what drives you to run?

I spoke with a gentleman yesterday who runs 4-6 miles a day, seven days a week. He told me he does it to stay alive. He has battled high cholesterol, and running helps him keep it in check. He doesn't race, but he used to. He loves running. He misses running 10 miles a day, but time has a way of reducing our miles - he's 65. He is currently a 9:00/mile pace runner. He told me he walks more now, and when he hits the 10:00/mile pace he may stop running. I told him not to, because at least he is out there running. That's more than most people.

When I started running, it was to lose weight. That was my motivation. Time have changed that, because I see running differently now. What drives me is a sense of accomplishing something. Some days, it's the desire to be out on my own and just be alone with my thoughts. Some days it's because I think it's what I do to feel normal. Other days, I do it to push my body one more step. The common theme for me is that I keep moving forward.

I am running more this year, than I have the last two years, and I am a happier runner for it. Races keep me in check. Marathons, challenge me.

What drives you?

Charlie

A Letter to My Forerunner 110

Dear Garmin Forerunner 110,

What can I say, we have had some wonderful runs together. You have shown me the wonders of running, be it showing my pace, my miles logged, where I ran, etc. You have timed me, when I needed to be timed. You have uploaded info which details my fastest and slowest pace. You were kind enough to map my run for me.

Here's the thing though.....I'm just not that in to  you anymore. You see, I'm more worried about what my pace is, when I should be worried about how I am running. I feel like I'm looking at you for some sort of validation, and in return, I just see numbers going and going.  Really though, it's not you, it's me. I just don't want to know what my pace is every second of my run.

Last week's long run was nice, because I wasn't worried about was I hitting my pace. I find when I worry about it, I'm not doing it. So I've made a decision. I'm going to cut back on using you. We can call it a break, though I will confess, I may see someone else. There's a hot Timex I've had my eye on, and all it does is keep time. I know, I know, it seems cruel, but I really think technology is not making be a better runner.

Oh, we'll still see each other. I just can't commit to the longer runs with you. I want to feel freer than I am. I hope you understand.

Love,
Charlie
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dear Charlie,

You suck, and your wrist is a bit stinky when you run.

Yours,
Forerunner 110

The Best - Again

Refresher time.....

There is no best running shoe. There is no shoe which will assure you a PR in your next race. It doesn't matter what shoe I wear. It doesn't matter what shoe "most people buy." There is no weeklyBCS  ranking of shoes to determine to best. Sorry....it goes back to what I have said for over 6 years in the business - the best shoe is the one that fits the best and works the best for you - period.

Can you tell what my weekend was like?

Charlie

Two Runs

This week I had two very different runs, though both were designed to do the same thing. Earlier last week I attempted to run my long run - 3 hours or 10 miles. That run ended after 50 minutes. Running in the humidity was like running with a sponge over my mouth. It also turned into an angry run, where I was just so frustrated with life, I couldn't concentrate on life.

Run #2 was better. It was a cooler day, less humidity, and I didn't use the GPS, just the watch. Technology is a wonderful thing, but sometimes, you don't need to know what pace you are running at every given moment. Sorry Garmin. So I ran.

This run was much better. I felt freer to run, since I wasn't always looking at the GPS. When I run without the GPS, I feel I can focus more on the run, and my body, and what I am doing. I finished in 2:24, and ran 10 miles, which is pretty good for me. More importantly I was happy with the run.

I told my training program yesterday, that we have to improvise when we run. We can't be a slave to the program. If your long run isn't going well, scrap it, and just run. You can do the long run the next go round. It really doesn't matter if you do your long run on Saturday or some other day. I know we have busy lives, but just figure it out, and know you have some freedom.

Charlie

Firecracker 6 2013

Yesterday was the annual running of the Firecracker 6, a 6 mile race through downtown Indianapolis. What started with 250 runners in 2010, is now up to around 1,000 registered runners. Not bad. upfront, I will be honest, I have run 3 out of the 4 races, but this is not my favorite race. In fact, I don't like the course. I needed a 6 mile run yesterday, and this fit the bill.

The plus side to the race is I got to run with my friend Kris. Typically when I run with friends, that means we start together. Kris and I ran the entire course yesterday. The 6 miles was spent catching up, and just chatting.

Wait though, this was also a training run, so how did that go? I finished in 1:33, so I was at a decent pace. This was the slowest Firecracker I have done, but I was viewing it in terms of marathon training. For the marathon training, I was where I wanted to be pace-wise. This is a hot and humid race, so I walked more than I care too, but it I just felt uncomfortable, and need more walking.

My biggest complaint about this race was finally resolved. When we ran the first one, Mark was with us running, and he got frustrated that there weren't any port-a-potties on the course. This was the first year they had one on the course(Mile 3). About time folks!

I think if I am going to truly love running in Indianapolis, I need to design a course I like. Why do all the courses have to take us through the ugly industrial parts of the city. It makes it sooooo boring(500 Mini Marathon). At least the Monumental just skirts you around those parts.

I finished in 797th place out of over 800 finishers. I'll take it, a Kenyan I am not.

Charlie

30 Years to Yesterday

For a few moments, I'm not going to talk about running, or coffee for that matter. This is a rare departure on this blog, and most of you will indulge me this posting. I feel I need to express myself on a deeper level.

30 years ago this month I entered life as an openly gay man. Now to be honest, the previous 20 years were pretty gay, but my coming out was an important moment for me. David Ferguson may not have realized it then, but when he kissed me(and vice versa), back in the little practice room at School of the Arts, the real me was awakened, and my inner joy was truly born. Yup, who knew a make out session could do all that.

My journey over the next 30 years was difficult at some points, and tremendously happy in other points. There has been one constant though, my firm belief that my orientation doesn't mean I take a back seat to anyone.

The year after coming out, I endured the horror of rape. I went home with a guy, who I thought was a pretty decent guy, and in turn he raped me. The ugliness of that day haunts me. It doesn't define me though. I was told very early on, and it took me a while to understand this, but it's true - I was not responsible for what happened that day. I was still a person of worth, and not a piece of garbage as I was treated by that man.

The news though got worse. 1985 - I was misdiagnosed as being HIV+. I have to mention the misdiagnosis up front, because I don't want anyone to think I am still HIV+. I do, though, live with that diagnosis for 2.5 years. This period was I learned how little society cared for gay people.

The day I got my second test "confirming" my status, the State of Indiana health "counselor" told me to prepare to die. I asked if there was anyone or group to go to. She told me no. Little did I know the Lesbian and Gay Community were founding groups which would not only provide support on a mental level, but created organizations which took care of our medical, housing, nutritional, financial, and any other needs we could think of. We took care of our own, because we knew this wasn't "God's punishment." We knew this was a public health issue, and our country at the time didn't care. We were still the second class citizens who were "perverts" and freaks. We were "Queers" and not in that good way.

1988 I came out of the closet even further. I was elected the first president of OUT, Indiana University's  LGBT organization. With the hard work of great people like Jeff Bass, Chad Brown, Nora Fergus, Grant Kerr, Chad Fisher, and our straight allies, like Jennifer Rudd and Pamela Freeman, we worked hard over the next two years, to let the university community know that lesbian and gay students were equal to anyone else on campus.

Sexual orientation was put into the non-discriminatory policies of the university. We created Pride Week and the Miss Gay IU Pageant. We remembered those in our past who perished during the Holocaust. We laid the ground work for the LGBT Student Support Center. We demanded a place at the table, and we got it. No one gave us anything, we worked hard for it.

We also remembered those of our friends and loved ones who dies of AIDS related causes. We brought the NAMES Project Quilt to Indiana for the first time in 1990. We raised over $16,000 for community AIDS organization with our efforts.

My post IU life was very different. For a time I lived in Nashville, TN. At that time the closet door was barely open a crack. I had joined a gay men's support group, and quickly learned how self loathing some gay men could be. One member of the group killed himself, because of the "shame" of his sexuality. I have never been ashamed of who I am, and it bothered me that someone would do this. I left the group shortly after this happened. I asked the counselor why he suggested I join. He thought I would be a role model for the group. That isn't a good reason to join a group. A support group should help you, not reinforce the negatives.

I did come out to my family while I was IU. It wasn't the more positive experience. My mom took it fairly hard. I'm not sure she was every comfortable with it. At the end of her life, she told me she just wanted me to be happy, and enjoy life.

Relationships have not always been easy, but then again they never are. I have had the one night stands, the stalker, the being alone, the love, the loss of love, and the love again. Six years ago, last week, I met Mark. We met online, hooked up(yup I will be blunt), dated, and fell in love. That love has endured a lot in the last six years. His health issues have been a source of hardship for us on many levels. He in turn has dealt with my work issues, and our move to my home state of Indiana, which has not gone well for him.

I have always been honest about my life and my relationships. It has caused me trouble in the workplace, because I have worked in the past with idiots who don't consider me equal. My dad told me many years ago, that I should marry a lesbian, that way no one would discriminate against me. I looked him in the eye and said, "Dad do you really think I would ALLOW anyone to discriminate against me?" HELL NO!

My 30 year journey has included wonderful friends, both gay and straight alike. One sadness for me came in 1994, when I lost my childhood friend Dave Wagle. We had gone through middle and high school together. We were competitive with each other in choir(of course I was the better singer). We lost touch when we went to college, but found each other when I moved to Chicago in 1992. He had AIDS and was dying.

This was still at a time of great stigma, even in our community. Many of his friends had abandoned him. I wondered why he had so few visitors in the hospital. He told me his friends didn't want to see what would happen to them. I hated that. I made sure everytime we were together we did something fun. We did lunch at the old Marshall Field's Walnut Room. We went shopping. We had a cocktail or two. We did what friends do.

Dave passed away while I was in Italy in school, during he summer of 1994. When I spoke to his mother, I told her I didn't realize how close he was to dying. She told me he asked about often while I was gone. I wished I could have been there for him at the end. Still he knew how much I valued our friendship. He is buried a few miles away from where my family had a cottage at Lake Michigan. He had visited us there a few times, and I know he loved that area. I was touched he wanted to be buried there.

When the world hasn't been good to gay people, it has always been important to surround myself with friends. I am blessed to have had FABULOUS friends. Naming them is a horrible exercise, because I know I would forget someone, and hurt their feelings. I do need to name two people who were crucial to helping me develop as a gay man - Chris Runge and Marshall Shore. Oh how I wish these two knew each other.

Chris was the first person I told about that memorable kiss, and that I was gay. Of course, he would come out later in life, but he was so supportive and happy for me. I am so happy my first coming out was that positive.

Marshall I met while I was at IU. He went to Purdue(not his fault I'm sure). He was a friend of a friend, and then we became friends. He taught me about being FABULOUS! He and I have shared holidays together(my first cooking a thanksgiving turkey comes to mind in my blond wig and pearls). We have gone clubbing together(Gauze Boy). We have shared our joys and our sorrows with each other. When I ran my first marathon, I chose Phoenix, so he could be there to support me. He is my gay brother, and I love him dearly.

This 30 year experience has made me a happy and proud gay man. Still though, Mark and I face a country where we have been second class citizens. Personally I believe we are second to no one. We are equal. Thanks to the DOMA and Prop. 8 decisions by the US Supreme Court, lesbians and gays have been told that we are equal, and while our efforts need to continue, in the eyes of the highest court in the land, we are not second class citizens.

This decision will not stop the haters from trying to beat us back. History though is on our side. Mark and I will be married. It will be recognized. Our marriage won't be a "skim milk" marriage(quoting Justice Ginsberg). As the chant goes, "We're here. We're queer. Get used to it."

I look forward to continuing to be a proud gay man, and continuing to fight for that place at the table.

Charlie

Pacing in the Heat

Summer is CLEARLY here now, and so is the heat and the humidity. As I waded through the sauna like run today, I thought about how to pace myself. When the heat is like this, you don't want to go full out hard on a run. You need to pace yourself.

I was armed with water and a gel. Off I went on the Monon. I wanted to run between 45 minutes to an hour. I knew this would not be a fast run.

In my head I was working on staying at an easy pace. For me, I thought that should be a 15:15 pace. At the half way point, I was averaging a 15:25 pace. So now here is the issue; am I good with that, or do I pick it up a bit. I opted to pick it up.

At one point I was running at 14:04. Way too fast, and my body was telling me the heat would soon get me if I kept that up. I eased up, and just focused on running comfortable. This worked well, and in the end, I did 3.23 miles in a 15:00 pace. So while I was still ahead of goal pace, I wasn't tired or dehydrated.

I felt this was a pretty successful run.

Charlie

What's Wrong With Track and Field?

Over the weekend I saw video from Des Moines, IA, host to this year's US Track and Field Championships which disturbed me. I saw some of the best athletes in the world, giving their all to make the World Championship Team, in front very few spectators. This bothers me, because as I watch track and field meets from other parts of the world, I see fuller, if not full stadiums.

Des Moines is a track town. The Drake Relays are hosted there. Several NCAA Championships meets have been there. There is running history there.

I understand this is not an Olympic year. This may be part of the problem. We tend to pay attention to track and field, every four years, and then forget these athletes exist. It didn't always used to be like this.

In the early to mid 20th century, track meets garnered a lot of attention. One only needs to read the historical clippings about the great Jesse Owens to see there was plenty of attention to the meets. Of course, this was before television and 500 sport channels.

Competition for the sporting dollar is intense. Football and basketball dominate our country. Baseball and hockey come next. Soccer is still trying to gain traction.

What needs to happen to get track and field into the limelight? USA Track and Field(USATF), need only look in their backyard for what can help. Carmel, Indiana is an example of how to build interest in running - start them young.

In Carmel kids in elementary school have what are called "Pup Running" groups. Parents help coach kids to run, and set up small scale competitions. Kids love this, and it begins a feeder system into middle school and high school programs. Carmel High School is routinely a top running school in the state, and an elite program in the country. Well over 100 kids participate in track at the school, and also in cross country.

In Chicago, where I lived previously, there was little attention given to track. In fact ,when I helped Marathon Kids find a venue for their events, it is almost impossible to find something in the city. The suburbs is where running lives.

So is this an economic issue? Running, compared to other sports, is one of the cheapest to participate in. Shoes(and spikes), shirt, shorts, are your basic tools. You don't need pads, equipment, masks, balls, bats, etc. You need yourself. This would seem to be a good chance for inner city kids to participate. Yet, the suburbs are the hubs.

We have read now for decades that African American youth see sports such as football and basketball as ways out of economic hardship or poverty. Clearly, with the multi-million dollar contracts, that makes sense. I'm not saying track and field needs to have that kind of money going on(nor should it), but why can't there be an economic incentive for track and field?

Now I write this, and I understand, I don't know what outreach USATF has for growth. I will be critical though, at your national championship, you can't be happy to have NBC televise 4 hours on a Saturday of empty seats in a stadium. Not all communities are Eugene, OR(Tracktown USA), but still you have to get out there and fill those seats.

I know they are working on better financial rewards for athletes. I know athletes like Nick Symmonds are pushing for of the money that is already out there. Both are good moves, now we need the incentive to get people to watch track and field.

Charlie

Frankenstein Walk

After a long run(6+ miles), my feet, ankles and legs hurt. For about a day I walk like Frankenstein. I hate it. I have always hated it, but it's my reality. I believe part of the problem stems from the removal of tendons from my lower legs when I was an infant, in an effort to "cure" my Clubbed Foot issues.

Since my range of motion is minimal in one foot, and pretty non existent in the other foot, I have no doubt this is what aggravates everything. Add to it my Arthritis, and you have a lot of pain potential. Now when I am running, I typically don't feel this pain until later in a run. The pain sets in the moment I stop running. This probably happens because the muscles are now resting and the inflammation has a chance to kick into high gear.

So what makes it get better? Ironically being on my feet. Resting feels good, but then when I move the pain is horrible. If I can walk around a while, the pain isn't as intense, and I can walk with less limping. I just can't be on my feet all day.

There are days I wish there was a shot to make the pain go away.

Charlie

My 3rd Annual Gay Moment

Every Summer I share my gay running moment. Two years ago I talked about how I like the shirtless male runners. Last year I talked shorts. This year, I want to talk about who should and shouldn't be out there trying to look hot.

As I ran on this very humid morning, I saw all kinds of men out there. Now to be fair, it was hot and humid out there, and I don't want knock the guys who just want to be comfortable. I get it. For a brief moment, I thought about doffing my shirt. Then again....I think of others, and I know what they don't want to see.

So here is an idea of who should not be out there shirtless.

1) Hairy Men - Sorry, if you take your shirt off, and you look like a running forest, put the shirt back on.

2) More Wrinkles than a Shar Pei - While I am AARP eligible, I will never be old enough to run without a shirt. Bouncing wrinkles just is not right.

3) Painfully Ugly - It's one thing to be ugly ......

So....who should be out there shirtless for all of us to enjoy. Perfect example is Olympic Athlete Nick Symmonds.... While I appreciate Nick as a great runner, he is also a LGBT Equality Supporter, and one FINE looking guy. 

Clearly I have some work to do before I doff my shirt and head out on the trail. Come on guys....you want to look hot out on the road - get to work!

Charlie

Canal Towpath Run

Every now and then, I think it's good to get off the beaten path on a run. For me in Indianapolis. that means running on the Central Canal Towpath. This path was created in the 19th century as a waterway within the city.

As you can tell from the picture, it's a crushed limestone path that anyone can use. Yesterday I shared the path with bikers and runners, and the occasional turtles. Of course the turtles were working hard to keep up with me.

The path is 5.23 miles, starting in the Broad Ripple area, and ventures towards 30th St. You go through the woods behind Butler University and near the Indianapolis Museum of Art. I started in the Rocky Ripple neighborhood, and turned around right before the art museum. I also veered towards Butler University. I ran 3 miles.

Running on the towpath is very serene and calm. All I heard was the crunch of the limestone as I ran. Typically I run slower on this surface, and I was fine with that. This was about getting in a run, and enjoying it.

I encourage all my Indy friends to go for a run on the towpath....you'll love it.

Charlie

Summer Run

Yesterday I worked until mid-afternoon. Typically I don't run after work, but I gave it a shot yesterday. It was humid when I got to the Monon Trail. I saw a few souls out there biking and running. This wasn't a long run. I had a 45 minute run in mind. Off I went.

I didn't have a hat on, and wished I did. Flys and other insects were landing on my head. Must have been the product I had in it. I did a lot of swatting away of flys. I'm sure I looked a bit strange, running and swatting.

I got into a groove fairly quickly and felt good, though my right knee gave me a bit of a twingy issue. It went away though. At the halfway point, I was at 23:00 on the dot. I knew what I needed to do to hit negative splits - go faster. That was the goal on the return trip.

My return time was 22:58. Negative splits! Overall another good run.

I have been given an entry into the annual Firecracker 6 on July 4. This is a hot mess of a race, from a heat standpoint. I have run 2 out of the last 3. The course is "shady" at the start. The last 3 miles are pretty brutal - no shade, and that's when I slow down. My PR in this race is 1:24:28. Last year I ran 1:26 :12. I will be happy to beat last year's time.

This is vacation week, so I have some runs planned, including a longer run on the weekend.

Keep on running!

Charlie

The Long Run: Time to Think

Thinking! So what else are you going to do during a two hour run? Today no music, just me out there running, alone with my thoughts. This has been a difficult week. I had an anxiety attack the other night, and have not slept well. The long run allows you the time to think things over, and hopefully work through your issues. Oh, and while you're at it, you are running as well.

The run allowed me to think things which led to the anxiety attack. I didn't resolve anything, but the run gave me the chance to put things in perspective, and how I can handle what is going on.

When I wasn't obsessing about the woe is me part of life, I ran well. I felt good for most of the run. My pace was decent. I ran 7 miles today in 1:50. Not my best pace, but I was happy with it.

The heat did come through, and I realized I wasn't hydrated prior to the run like I should have been. I hit the NUUN bottle pretty heavy.

The week's long run is done. Now I can do a short run to wrap things up.

Charlie

99 Days.....

The countdown is now under 100 days until I run in Appleton! Running is going well. I would prefer to be running 4 days a week, but the body and time don't allow. Looking for a 2 hour run this week. Hope I can get it done.

I'm feeling good and confident that I can now form a plan to succeed in this marathon.

Charlie

Show Tunes Running

Tonight is the annual Tony Awards, a huge celebration of theatre. For my long run I loaded up a bunch of show tunes, and off I went on a 5.5 mile journey. When I turned 50, I wrote about how I had wanted to be an actor. So today, as I was listening to various tunes. I thought about the theatre experiences I had. Yup a run with nostalgia.

"Pippin" was the first big show I saw. My parents took me to Chicago(1973), to see the story of Pippin, son of Charlemagne. I remember it being a pretty randy show, so I'm not sure what my parents thought they were taking me to see. Still I was hooked!

Every now and then a show would make its way to South Bend, and I remember my mom, grandmother and me going to see "1776." If you haven't seen this show, this is a more sophisticated version than SchoolHouse Rock of how the Declaration of Independence was written.

In London I saw "Chicago" the great Bob Fosse musical. To this day, I think the stage version is so much better than the movie from a few years ago.

My most amazing experience was actually a play called "West Side Waltz." The playwright had written "On Golden Pond," a film I loved, but this was a very mediocre play, but we sat in the 4th row center, and watched the great Katherine Hepburn in it. WOW! There was the legend 4 rows away from me.

Yes, I have been to Broadway, and have been lucky enough to see "The Producers," "Les Miserables,""Rent," "Urinetown," "Kiss Me Kate," and in 2001 attended the Tony Awards.

"Cats," "Annie," "West Side Story," and by far the worst show ever - "Annie 2" have all been in my past. "I guess "Annie 2" would have been better if FDR had not gotten out of his wheelchair to dance.

My love of the stage continues to this day, and filled my head, and I did hum a bit during the 5.5 mile long run today. Great run, great memories.

Charlie

Training Assessment

When I began the training for the marathon I had a plan. I am still on track...sorta. My longest run has been 80 minutes. At this point I thought that I would be at 2 hours. I'm not worried, but as usual I underestimated my stamina. Now that I have some longer runs(1 hour+) under my belt, I feel better about tackling a 2 hour run.

Physically I know I am not anywhere close to a marathon day form. Good thing I have 105 days until race day. I am in a much better place than I was a month ago. So I feel good about that.

My diet is better, but I think it had nowhere to go but better. :-)

If I were grading myself I would say I am at a B-. So I am on track, and have room to improve.

Charlie

The Labels

Everyday I work with at least one customer who tells me they really don't run....they jog. I have never been one of those people who took to the label of jogging. There does seem to be 3 basic labels for runners though:

Runners
Joggers
Run/Walkers

During my run today I thought about these labels, and in the end, I decided they are bunk. As you all know, I see running as right foot, left foot repeat...of course the repeat is faster than a walk. If you are out doing your miles, or training for a race, or just doing it for fitness, you  are a runner. I take my cues from Steve Runner on this. He has said over and over again, that once you have run a marathon, you now and forever shall be known as a marathoner.

I think when we say something like, 'I'm just a jogger," I feel like we are putting ourselves down, as not worthy of the title of runner. I call BS. You're a runner.

Charlie

Feel Like Normal

Today was one of those runs where I felt normal. I have long said that running makes me feel like a normal person. With my lack of running, I haven't had that normal feeling - until today. Today felt like all cylinders were going. I was running well. I was in a zone.

The goal was a longer run today, and that that was accomplished. I ran 4.8 miles. Something else was accomplished. The feeling that I am doing something others are doing is important to me. As a reminder, my early life was spent not being active due to issue surrounding being born with Clubbed Feet. I still deal with those issues.

When I am out running, and I am being greeted by fellow runners, and I am feeling good on a run, I feel just amazing.

The 4.8 miles was covered 1:11:19, but in the end, much more was covered.

Charlie